Metastasis involves a series of steps where cancer cells detach from the primary tumor, invade surrounding tissues, enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and establish new colonies in distant organs. Key steps include epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), where cells gain migratory properties, and the ability to survive in circulation and colonize new environments. Factors like the extracellular matrix and interactions with the microenvironment play critical roles in these processes.
